The #1 World’s Best Wine of 2011

Price: ¥299

Frescobaldi Nipozzano Riserva Chianti Rufina DOCG 2007

Wine Enthusiast magazine’s number #1 rated wine for 2011.

Of course, it’s Italian and it’s on our list so we are in 7th heaven. Very limited in supply. First come first served. Minimum order is 6 bottles. At its peak now it will continue to be on that plateau until 2015.

The 2007 Chianti Rufina Riserva shows the open, opulent personality that makes this vintage so alluring. Ripe, silky tannins frame a core of red fruits, flowers and spices, all of which come together with unusual grace. Though medium in body, there is wonderful generosity to the fruit, not to mention fabulous overall balance. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2015.

The most famous wine from the estate is the Chianti Rufina Riserva DOCG. This is the definition of the appellation, a classic Chianti Rufina consisting of mostly Sangiovese with small amounts of Malvasia Nera, Colorino, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon. In accordance with the DOCG regulations, it is aged 24 months in barrel plus another 3 months in the bottle.

Tasting Notes – 2007
It appears a deep, purple-edged ruby red, of impressive brilliance. Solid fruit notes of wild blackberry, blueberry, raspberry and dark cherry emerge initially on the nose, gradually yielding to more pungent impressions of sage, rosemary, vanilla, and cinnamon. That spiciness segues onto the palate, and then into a finish that ends with a flourish of balsam, black pepper, and cocoa powder. The mid-palate shows alcoholic warmth and roundness, while the tannins and acidity are noticeable, adding to the wine’s overall harmony.